This imposing circular castle was used to guard the living and the dead. Built as a mausoleum for Hadrian, it was transformed into a fortress for the popes in the 6th century. During a plague epidemic, Pope Gregory the Great saw the Archangel Michael sheathing his sword on top of the building: this episode gave rise to its current name. Visits to Castel Sant'Angelo today are a great way to discover the real Rome. The Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo is home to collections, the result of private donations or arriving from the ancient furnishings of the castle.

Castel Sant'Angelo tickets: 15 euro full; 2 euro reduced

Castel Sant'Angelo hours: Monday to Sunday from 9.00 to 19.30